Gates 31516 Radiator Cap

Gates 31516 Safety Release Radiator Cap

The Gates 31516 Safety Release Radiator Cap is a 16 psi vented cap built for vehicles that use a safety-release style radiator neck. Its release lever helps direct steam through the overflow tube, adding a safer way to relieve pressure during cooling system service.

Compatible With Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, Buick LeSabre, Chevrolet Astro, and many other 1990-2012 applications, this radiator cap is a direct-fit service part for a wide range of domestic cooling systems. Gates 31516 is a practical replacement when the original cap no longer holds pressure or shows wear at the seal.

Key Features

• Safety Release Vented Cap design for controlled pressure relief
• 16 psi pressure rating with SAE pressure range of 14-18 psi
• Release lever helps vent steam through the overflow tube
• Cap depth: 1.5 in.
• Filler neck inside diameter: 1.61 in.
• Filler neck outside diameter: 2.13 in.
• Shell diameter: 2.61 in.
• Coolant recovery system: optional system

Product Details

Gates Safety Release Radiator Caps are built for service applications where pressure control and safe venting matter. Part number 31516 is specified as a safety release vented cap, making it a strong match for vehicles that require a 16 psi radiator cap with the listed filler neck dimensions. This part cross-references Motorad ST16V and Wix 33063 for the same application.

Use Gates 31516 when servicing cooling systems on vehicles such as the Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Voyager, and Chevrolet Express vans, or other listed fitments that call for a 16 psi safety-release cap. The cap helps maintain system pressure while providing a controlled release path during overheating or service checks.

What It Helps Address

• Loss of cooling system pressure from a worn radiator cap seal
• Steam release concerns during radiator service
• Coolant overflow caused by a cap that no longer regulates pressure correctly
• Hard-to-diagnose overheating tied to weak cap pressure retention
• Fitment issues when the original cap uses a safety-release vented design

Installation Notes and Tips

• Verify filler neck dimensions before installation: 1.61 in. inside diameter and 2.13 in. outside diameter.
• Confirm the cooling system calls for a 16 psi cap before replacing the original part.
• Inspect the radiator neck, seal surface, and overflow tube for damage or contamination.
• Install only on a cool engine to reduce the risk of burns from residual pressure.
• Check for proper cap seating after installation and monitor coolant level during the next heat cycle.

Quality Assurance

Gates manufactures this radiator cap as part of its cooling system service lineup, with specifications published for pressure rating, neck dimensions, and vented safety-release operation. Part number 31516 is listed across a broad range of domestic vehicle applications, including Chrysler, Dodge, Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Pontiac, and related models.